These conditions are expected to continue, Cal Fire said in a statement sent out about 3:20 p.m.

Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit Chief Josh White emphasized the necessity of the ban for public safety.

"We know this makes it more difficult for property owners who are trying to reduce the flammable vegetation on their property, and we encourage them to continue to create defensible space,” White said. “Unfortunately, the unusually dry conditions have made burning unsafe. This suspension of outdoor burning is essential for the safety of all our communities. We are monitoring the weather conditions daily, and plan to lift the suspension if normal winter weather patterns return.”

Campfires are still permitted on Stanislaus National Forest land, in designated campgrounds, Cal Fire said.